by Ned Vizzini
First published 2000
Craig Gilner has it all: a coveted spot at an elite NYC high school, supportive parents, and a bright future. But the pressure takes a toll, and soon he finds himself in a psychiatric ward, struggling with depression. As he navigates the challenges of treatment and self-discovery, Craig's sharp humor and powerful insights offer a unique window into the complexities of mental illness. With empathy and humor, this coming-of-age story explores the road to recovery and the courage it takes to open up and find connection.
Genres: fiction, coming-of-age, mental-illness, contemporary, young-adult
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: coming-of-age, found-family
Setting: New York, New York (N.Y.)
Period: 2000's
444 pages · Paperback · Disney Hyperion
Content warnings: depression, mental-illness, suicide